Related Conditions

Iritis (Uveitis) in Children

Overview

Iritis is a form of uveitis and refers to the inflammation of the iris of the eye. It’s the most common form of uveitis in children.

Uveitis is a serious inflammatory eye disease in which the inside of the eye (specifically the three parts that make up the uvea — the iris, ciliary body and choroid) become inflamed.

Uveitis affects one in 20,000 children worldwide.

Anterior uveitis, involving inflammation of the iris alone or the iris and ciliary body, is the most common form of uveitis in children.

If left untreated, the inflammation can lead to scarring, cataracts, glaucoma and blindness. Prompt care is critical. If uveitis is diagnosed and treated promptly, however, the prognosis is generally good, and patients can expect to a full recovery.

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